N106 Million Christmas Spending Scandal Rocks Nnamdi Azikiwe University – Audit Report Exposes Financial Irregularities

The Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria, is under scrutiny following an audit report by the Auditor General of the Federation. The report accuses the university of unauthorized spending amounting to N106 million on Christmas hampers and “productivity bonuses” for board members.

Apart from the alleged Christmas-related expenditures, the audit report reveals various financial infractions, including unauthorized sitting allowances totaling N41 million to individuals not entitled to such benefits. Additional violations include unapproved spending of N7.5 million, unauthorized investments amounting to N165 million, and a failure to account for accrued interests from these investments.

The report suggests that the university’s actions occurred during a period when Nigerian universities faced fee hikes, citing increased operational costs and facility maintenance. Notably, Nnamdi Azikiwe University previously faced student protests in 2021 and a nearly 100% fee increase in 2023.

The spokesperson for the university, Ene Chika, declined immediate comment on the allegations, insisting on a face-to-face meeting with the reporter. The audit report recommends that the House of Representatives’ committee on public accounts seeks justification for the expenditures or applies sanctions in accordance with financial regulations.

The allegations involve not only financial irregularities in Christmas-related spending but also unauthorized allowances, investments, and overspending, raising concerns about the university’s financial management practices.